Strengthening its activities in the field of bio-derived processes, US polymer and fibre producer Invista (Wichita, Kansas; www.invista.com) in early February 2013 entered into a collaboration with biotechnology group Arzeda (Seattle, Washington / USA; www.arzeda.com). Under the terms of the deal, the two companies will work together to produce bio-derived butadiene, among others.

The agreement brings together Invista’s biotechnology and catalysis capabilities as well as its knowledge of the chemicals industry with Arzeda’s synthetic biology and enzyme design capabilities. As part of the collaboration, the two companies agreed to further develop their respective technology platforms to develop new processes for a range of products, including butadiene.

“As we seek innovative solutions to increase the global supply of butadiene, we believe developing a cost-competitive bio-derived route will help assure ample supply and reduce price volatility,” said Bill Greenfield, executive vice president of Invista’s Nylon Intermediates business.

In August last year, the US polymer and fibre manufacturer signed a joint development agreement with biotechnology group LanzaTech (Roselle, Illinois / USA; www.lanzatech.com) to develop a cost competitive biological route to butadiene – see Plasteurope.com of 16.08.2012.